Supply distribution points opened

State and federal officials have opened 18 distribution points for supplies for Hurricane Katrina victims in 10 parishes in south Louisiana, officials said.

The centers will be open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and the supplies are given away free to victims in need.

"They can drive up and anyone who needs it can get it, '' said state media coordinator Dana Newsome.

The supplies that are given away include ready-to-eat meals, ice, water, and in some cases, baby kits with diapers and "comfort kits'' that include personal toiletry items, she said. Newsome said all locations will soon have all items.